I read 1984 last year and the descriptions of thought crimes and the main character’s nervous and manic disposition felt really familiar to my own situation, how he felt evil for simply having private thoughts. The book also has mentions of hope, but the world of 1984 is irredeemably hopeless. Do you see a future in our world where good people are no longer persecuted? Is there any literature you really connect with?

🌸

The concept of 1984s thought crimes is similar to the catholic teachings of shame and guilt made more consequential. Many people in repressive religions feel evil just for having independent thoughts and feelings. The goal of both is to give up personhood and obey. I dont think good people will cease being persecuted but I also don’t believe it will stop people being good. That is what I call hope. No I don’t have any good literature in mind that embodies this thought, sorry